This Week's Top Pop Stories

Here are the top stories from this week's Day in Pop and the top Day in Pop digest stories

Justin Bieber and Selena Gomez Crash Wedding

(TMZ) Justin Bieber and Selena Gomez turned a ritzy Malibu beach wedding into a ritzy and AWESOME Malibu beach wedding by crashing the event ... and TMZ has video of them kicking it with the bride and groom.

According to our sources at Rob and Jeanine McCool's wedding ... Bieber and Gomez were strolling on the beach when they heard Justin's hit "One Less Lonely Girl" playing at the reception -- inside the historic and shi shi Adamson House.

We're told Justin snuck up on some guests -- who predictably OMG'd and LOL'd -- and then hopped on the mic, saying ... "We just crashed it. We heard a party so we decided to just come. So let's party."

Beibs and Selena only stayed for about 10 minutes to pose for pics -- including some with the happy couple -- and then bolted. - more on this story

Katy Perry Sets New Record

Katy Perry has set a VMA record, becoming the first artist in MTV history to be nominated for four separate videos in one year.

Katy's nominations include "Video of the Year" and "Best Female Video," for her No. 1 smash "Firework," "Best Pop Video" for "Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)," and "Best Collaboration" for her No. 1 single "E.T." featuring Kanye West.

Katy has been nominated for the following awards: Video of the Year and Best Female Video for "Firework," Best Pop Video for "Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)," Best Cinematography for "Teenage Dream," and Best Collaboration, Best Art Direction, Best Direction, Best Editing, and Best Special Effects for "E.T." (featuring Kanye West). The 28th annual MTV Video Music Awards will air live from Los Angeles' Nokia Theatre Sunday, August 28th. - more on this story

Boyband Beats Springsteen

(Gibson) British boyband Take That have smashed a concert record set by the king of the live show, Bruce Springsteen.

According to Billboard.com, Springsteen's concert stand record was for a 10-show run at New Jersey's Giants Stadium in 2003 that made $38.6 million and drew 566,560 spectators.

The reunited Take That, including Robbie Williams, played eight concerts at London's Wembley Stadium from June 30 until July 9 and grossed a staggering $61.7 million with an attendance of 623,737. - more on this story

Britney Spears Calls Drugs, Farting and Showering Claims Lies

(TMZ) Britney Spears has a simple reaction to the latest allegations made by a former bodyguard who now claims Brit was on drugs, farted incessantly, and hardly showered.

Sources directly connected with Britney tell TMZ, the singer has a simple response to Fernando Flores' allegations -- "He's a liar."

Flores -- who is suing Brit for sexual harassment -- now claims she uses methamphetamines, farts a lot, picks her nose and has terrible hygiene practices.

Flores only worked for Britney for a very short period of time. - more on this story

R. Kelly Has Emergency Surgery

Some major news out of the R. Kelly camp came out yesterday: R. Kelly will be laid up for an indefinite amount of time after undergoing an emergency procedure at Northwestern Memorial Hospital on Tuesday to drain an abscess on one of his tonsils.

Kelly had visited a throat specialist earlier in the day complaining of severe throat pain. Following a preliminary exam, he was rushed to Northwestern Memorial for the procedure.

It is not known when Kelly, who just completed the U.S. leg of his worldwide "Love Letter" Tour, will be able to resume performing. -

Rehab Worker Claims She Needs Surgery For Lindsay Lohan Injury

(TMZ) Dawn Holland claims she was injured so badly when Lindsay Lohan twisted and pulled her wrist for 8-10 seconds during their Betty Ford confrontation ... she needs surgery to repair the damage.

Holland's lawyer, Owen McIntosh, tells TMZ ... ever since the alleged showdown last year, his client has been suffering from De Quervain syndrome.

According to Dr. Wik E. Pedia, De Quervain syndrome is a "tendinosis of the sheath or tunnel that surrounds two tendons that control movement of the thumb." Symptoms include pain, tenderness, swelling and difficulty gripping.

McIntosh says Holland's surgery is scheduled for this Thursday the 28th.

Lindsay maintains she never TOUCHED Dawn ... insisting Holland concocted the story in an effort to get money from the actress - more on this story

Former American Idol Contestant Accused of Robbery

(TMZ) Former "American Idol" wannabe Bucky Covington has been accused of one of the most UN-AMERICAN crimes ever ... stealing $1,500 from a guy during a 4th of July week concert ... but Bucky says it just ain't so!!!

Bucky -- who placed 8th on "Idol" back in 2006 -- was set to perform at the Iron Horse Saloon in Ormond Beach, Florida on June 30 as part of a July 4 NASCAR race week celebration ... when the promoter suffered chest pains and was rushed to a nearby hospital.

With the promoter out of the picture, Bucky allegedly saw an opportunity to raid the cash box -- and instructed his brother and his brother's wife to pull off a snatch and grab.

The promoter filed a police report, obtained by TMZ, claiming the Covington gang made off with roughly $1,500 bucks that night ... which they refuse to give back.

TMZ spoke to Bucky ... who adamantly denies the allegations ... but adds, "I'm just glad I'm big enough to be on TMZ! Thanks!"

An investigation into the alleged incident is ongoing. - more on this story

Arnold Schwarzenegger Files New Response To Maria Shriver Divorce

(TMZ) Arnold Schwarzenegger has refiled his response to Maria Shriver's divorce petition, and this time he's not trying to deny her spousal support or attorney's fees.

As we first reported, sources connected with Arnold told us ... although he signed his legal response, he never read it and therefore didn't know his lawyer moved to block Maria's bid to get spousal support and her attorney's fees paid by him.

But according to the new docs, Arnold is not asking the judge to block either of Maria's requests.

The misstep caused some problems last week -- especially since Maria was dealing with the serious injury of her son, Christopher, at the time she got slapped with Arnold's papers. - more on this story

Tony Bennett Remembers Amy Winehouse

(PR) Tony Bennett, who recorded the classic pop standard "Body And Soul" with Amy Winehouse at Abbey Road Studios in London this past March, made the following statement upon news of her passing:

"Amy Winehouse was an artist of immense proportions and I am deeply saddened to learn of her tragic passing. She was an extraordinary musician with a rare intuition as a vocalist and I am truly devastated that her exceptional talent has come to such an early end.

"She was a lovely and intelligent person and when we recorded together she gave a soulful and extraordinary performance. I was honored to have the opportunity to sing with her. It had been my sincere hope that she would be able to overcome the issues she was battling and I send my deepest sympathy to her father Mitchell, her entire family and all of those who loved her." -

NBC Denies Offering Casey Anthony Money

(TMZ) NBC News tells TMZ ... it did not offer Casey Anthony any money for an interview with her.

An NBC rep tells us, "NBC News has not and will not be in a bidding war for a Casey Anthony interview. No money has or will be offered, no licensing or other arrangements. If we were to conduct an interview it would be under our standards."

The rep confirms ... NBC did indeed foot the bill for Jose Baez' suite at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in New York City last week. As we reported, Baez met with famed celeb lawyer Mark Geragos last Thursday in the hotel bar, discussing negotiating strategy and talking about the "big price tag" for the interview.

And sources connected with ABC insist there was indeed a bidding war between the networks. ABC now says it will no longer pay for photos and videos connected with interviews - more on this story

Former Yankees Star Commits Suicide?

(TMZ) Former New York Yankees pitcher Hideki Irabu has been found dead in his California home.

Law enforcement sources tell TMZ, it appears he committed suicide by hanging himself. L.A. County Coroner is still trying to locate next of kin.

Hideki played for the Yankees, Expos, and Rangers -- last pitching in the big leagues in 2002. He won World Series rings with the Yanks in 1998 and 1999. - more on this story

Selena Gomez Mystery Illness Not Pregnancy

(TMZ) Selena Gomez has undergone a number of tests for blood pressure issues since being hospitalized Thursday ... TMZ has learned.

As TMZ first reported, Gomez was rushed to the hospital on Thursday after taping an appearance on "The Tonight Show," complaining of nausea and a severe headache.

Sources tell us Gomez has undergone a number of tests for blood pressure issues, but so far ... doctors have not been able to determine what is causing the problem.

Oh ... as for the rumors going around she's pregnant ... totally untrue - more on this story

Sly Stone Coke Bust

(TMZ) Sly Stone -- leader of the group Sly and the Family Stone -- is slated to appear in an L.A. courtroom Friday after the singer was arrested for cocaine possession back in April ... TMZ has learned.

Stone -- real name Sylvester Stewart -- was arrested on April 1 ... after LAPD officers say they found freebase cocaine on the 68-year-old during a vehicle search.

TMZ spoke with Sly's attorney, James Silverstein, who tells us Stone was riding in a buddy's camper vehicle with some friends ... when it was pulled over for a routine traffic violation.

During the stop, Silverstein says, cops searched the vehicle and found the coke. Stone was arrested and hauled to a nearby police station. - more on this story

Rick Ross Accused in Pitbull Murder Incident

(TMZ) The blood of an adorable 3-year-old Yorkie named Banks is on Rick Ross' hands... according to a lawsuit filed against the rapper.

Banks' owner is suing Ross -- claiming 3 pitbulls escaped from Rick's mansion in Atlanta back in April ... entered her property and ferociously attacked her tiny pet Yorkshire Terrier.

According to documents obtained by TMZ, the yorkie suffered "3 large bite wounds on his back " along with a "very large bite wound" around his neck. Cops were called to the scene -- and officials managed to free Banks ... but his wounds were so extreme, that the owner had no choice but to euthanize her beloved companion.

Investigators eventually cited Ross for the incident -- but the owner wasn't satisfied so she filed suit, demanding Ross fork over $15,000 in damages and court costs.

We're told the owner is especially upset because Ross has NOT apologized for the incident.

Calls and emails to Rick's camp have not been returned. - more on this story

Another Milestone For George Strait

George Strait released his 89th career single and notches his second highest debut in his career on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart as "Here For A Good Time," the first single from his upcoming MCA Nashville album, lands at No. 29 on its official add date at radio.

It is the most added song at country radio this week with an impressive 80 adds. This is his highest debut since "I Saw God Today" debuted Top 20 in 2008.

"Here For A Good Time," written by Strait, his son Bubba Strait and legendary songwriter Dean Dillon, is Strait's 89th career single. The new album is scheduled for a fall release.

"I think this is the longest time, during my recording career, without anything new on the radio," said Strait. "It's good to be back and I want to thank country radio for their continued support. Have a great summer!" -

Joss Stone Murder Plot Arrests

(Gibson) Police in southwest England have arrested two men on suspicion of conspiracy to rob and murder near the home of U.K. singer Joss Stone.

Police were alerted by suspicious locals and arrested the pair in the town of Cullompton on Monday morning. The men, aged 30 and 33, were initially held for possessing an offensive weapon and being equipped for burglary and theft. The BBC today reported the men also had "a bodybag" in their possession.

"As a result of enquiries the two men are now being detained for the further offences of conspiracy to rob and conspiracy to murder," a police statement said. - more on this story

Friday Producers Vs Rebecca Black Over Friday Video

(TMZ) The company that produced Rebecca Black's hit "Friday" says it was "blindsided" by the singer's demand to pull the video off of YouTube -- and is taking a shot at the singer for not calling them first.

A rep for Ark Music Factory tells us "We're disappointed, having been in good faith negotiations with Rebecca Black and her representatives for months regarding any open issues."

The rep continues, "There's been an ongoing, open dialogue with our company. So we were blindsided to get a Take Down Notice -- with no notice -- alleging copyright infringement instead of a call or email from Rebecca's representatives."

AMF adds, "We are going to continue to take the high road and work out the complaint as soon as possible." - more on this story

R. Kelly Paid Off Sex Accusers Instead of Manager?

(TMZ) R. Kelly's ex-manager claims the singer refused to pay him more than $1 million in hard-earned commissions ... insisting Kelly instead used the money to pay off people who accused him of sexual misconduct.

The manager -- Jeff Kwatinetz -- filed a lawsuit against Kelly today in L.A. County Superior Court ... claiming he single-handedly resurrected R. Kelly's career back in 2008 ... when the singer was drowning in child pornography charges.

Jeff claims he "guided Kelly through the recording of two new albums, substantial multi-million dollar tours ... a book deal, and a myriad of other appearances and events" -- and "Kelly reaped millions of dollars" while under his management. But according to Jeff, Kelly left him in the lurch -- and "has failed and refused to pay" the 15% commission rate they allegedly agreed on.

According to the lawsuit, Kelly's business manager regularly told Jeff he couldn't be paid "because the monies were needed for payments to avoid lawsuits and adverse publicity resulting from Kelly's alleged [sexual misconduct]." - more on this story

Bam Margera Predicted Ryan Dunn's Death

(TMZ) Five years before Ryan Dunn was killed in a violent car crash, Bam Margera predicted the "Jackass" star's death in eerily specific detail -- claiming, "He's gonna eat it one of these times [in a car accident]."

Bam -- along with several cast members from his MTV show "Viva La Bam" -- made the grim prediction while recording the DVD commentary for Season 5 back in 2006.

According to the commentary, Dunn was involved in SEVERAL car accidents over the years -- but Bam's mom claimed, "He'll never learn his lesson."

Another "Bam" cast member added, "I have [Ryan] in the death pool ... for death by vehicle."

In this specific episode, Ryan races Bam's Lamborghini in a limousine -- and after Ryan loses, Bam claims, "[the limo] blew up just like every other f**king car he has." - more on this story

Charlie Sheen Loses Final Goddess

(TMZ) Charlie Sheen is finally UNCHAINED -- because TMZ has learned, the Warlock's last remaining goddess just gave him the chop.

Sources close to Charlie tell TMZ, Natalie Kenly moved out last week -- but hell hath no fury like a Warlock scorned ... because we're told, the actor DEMANDED she return the Mercedes he bought her.

According to sources close to the actor, Charlie brushed off the break-up, claiming it's "not a common thing for the Masheen!"

We're told Charlie's penis celebrated the split by declaring war on the entire world, conquering three women from three different countries -- Mexico, Australia, and Colombia -- the very night Kenly walked out. - more on this story

It Wasn't Michael Jackson's Voice On The Simpsons

(Gibson) It was not Michael Jackson's voice that sang "Happy Birthday Lisa" on The Simpsons TV show in 1991. In the episode, "Stark Raving Dad," Jackson voiced a character who was a mental patient, but was not allowed to sing his own song.

According to NME.com, Jackson had written the song especially for the show, but was blocked by his record company, Sony, from actually singing it.

The singing voice belonged to Jackson impersonator Kipp Lennon, who also voiced Jackson in the TV series The Jacksons: An American Dream. - more on this story

Miley Cyrus Takes On Fleetwood Mac

(Gibson) You can believe the Rumours. Pop star Miley Cyrus recently covered Fleetwood Mac while on tour in Australia.

The "Party in the USA" singer performed her version of the 1975 hit "Landslide" while in Brisbane, according to Ultimate Classic Rock.

"Landslide" is not the only well-known song Cyrus has trotted out lately. The former Hannah Montana actress has made headlines for singing Nirvana's "Smells Like Teen Spirit" and Poison's "Every Rose Has its Thorn." She even recorded a version of the latter with Poison frontman Bret Michaels. - video here

Paris Hilton Vs Lindsay Lohan

(TMZ) Someone get Lindsay Lohan some aloe and a cold compress ... 'cause she just got BURNED by Paris Hilton!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hilton was taping her Oxygen reality show "The World According to Paris" ... when a homeless woman mistook her for Lindsay Lohan. At first, Paris seemed to take it in stride ... but then P-FUNK DROPS THE HAMMER!!!

It ain't the first time Hilton's taken a shot at Lohan ... remember, she egged on and laughed her face off at Brandon Davis during his infamous "Firecrotch" rant back in '06. - more on this story

Whitney Houston Enters Rehab Program

(TMZ) Whitney Houston has checked herself in to an out-patient rehabilitation program ... but it's not for drugs or alcohol ... TMZ has learned.

A source directly connected with Whitney tells us ... Houston enrolled in the program around 10 days ago. The program allows Houston to go out in public ... as long as she has a monitor.

Just last weekend, Houston was enjoying herself at a Prince concert in L.A. ... with her daughter right by her side.

Our source is not saying why Houston is seeking treatment ... but insists it's not drug or alcohol related. We're told, "She's cleansing herself to get ready for a new movie. - more on this story

Al Pacino Joins Lindsay Lohan and John Travolta in Gotti

(TMZ) Scarface is about to join the mob ... TMZ has learned Al Pacino has agreed to join the cast of the upcoming "Gotti" flick alongside Lindsay Lohan and John Travolta.

Marc Fiore -- the executive producer of "Gotti: Three Generations" -- tells us, "Pacino will portray Gambino crime family underboss and Gotti associate Neil Dellacroce."

Fiore adds, "We are very pleased to have Al join the extraordinary team that we are assembling to make this movie." - more on this story

Charlie Sheen Reacts To Ashton Kutcher Replacing Him on 2 and Half Men

(TMZ) Charlie Sheen delivered the ultimate back-handed compliment to Ashton Kutcher, telling TMZ he's talented but the show will tank.

Charlie continues, taking a shot at the show, saying, "Enjoy the show America. Enjoy seeing a 2.0 in the demo every Monday, WB." Essentially, Charlie is saying the age group that supported him is going to tune out.

Charlie adds, "Enjoy planet Chuck, Ashton. There is no air, laughter, loyalty, or love there." Of course, Charlie is referring to his nemesis, "Men" creator and Executive Producer Chuck Lorre. - more on this story

Oscar De La Hoya In Rehab

(TMZ) Oscar De La Hoya checked himself into rehab voluntarily and tells TMZ he feels he will come out "a stronger, healthier person."

As TMZ first reported, De La Hoya entered a rehab facility in California sometime within the last few weeks. We're told De La Hoya is seeking help for substance abuse issues.

De La Hoya issued a statement to TMZ that reads, "After doing an honest evaluation of myself, I recognize that there are certain issues that I need to work on. Like everyone, I have my flaws, and I do not want to be one of those people that is afraid to admit and address those flaws.

"Throughout my career and my life, I have always met all challenges head-on, and this is no different. I am confident that with the support of my family and friends, I will become a stronger, healthier person - more on this story

Justin Bieber Stranded

(TMZ) Justin Bieber was left stranded on the side of the road in downtown Los Angeles Saturday when the battery died on the crazy ride he was driving around in.

We're told Bieber was chilling with Rob Dyrdek at his Fantasy Factory, when he decided to take one of the cars out for a spin.

The cool ride didn't last long -- the battery died and Justin had to call back to the factory to have a replacement one brought out to him. We're told Justin didn't have to wait too long for help to arrive. - more on this story

Jersey Shore's Ronnie Beats Up The Situation

(TMZ) Ronnie and The Situation got into a MAJOR fist fight with each other Monday night in Italy ... TMZ has learned -- and based on the post-brawl pictures ... the Sitch got his ass kicked.

The two arrived separately back to their apartment hours ago -- Situation has red marks covering his face around his left eye. Ronnie's knuckles were torn up and bleeding.

Details around the fight are still unclear -- but big surprise ... we're told it all began with a blowout between Ronnie and Sammi. - more on this story

Send Lady Gaga, Justin Timberlake, or Charlie Sheen Into Space

TripAlertz.com is letting the fans pick which celebrity they want to send into space, literally. No word if you can vote to leave any of them there but here are some of the choices: Charlie Sheen, Lady Gaga, Justin Timberlake, Conan O'Brien, Lance Armstrong, Stephen Colbert, Ellen DeGeneres, Jimmy Fallon, Lady Gaga, Gayle King, Ashton Kutcher, and Jon Stewart. Here is the pitch with the details:

Could Lady Gaga get to wow the cosmos with her wardrobe? Will Team Conan or Team Fallon reign supreme? Is space the place for Charlie Sheen to cool his jets? It's the public votes that determine who will win an "Epic Journey into Space" with collective buying travel site TripAlertz.com, which vows to blast off voters' chosen celebrity thanks to a space travel partnership with XCOR Aerospace. And beyond winning a space voyage for your favorite star, there are an infinite number of ways to win a trip for you, if you are a TripAlertz member. Joining is free and takes 20 seconds.

Voting is free at http://www.tripalertz.com/celeb2space, and those who cast their ballot will be automatically entered to win an all-expense paid trip to Orlando, Fla., including VIP tickets to Kennedy Space Center, a three-night premium hotel stay, meals and airfare. What's more, those who vote in the next month will be entered to win the same star treatment as the winning celebrity - an "out of this world" trip through the ozone themselves. Furthermore, you receive an unlimited number of additional drawing entries for this free space trip for each friend you refer to TripAlertz.com, via an easy "Invite Friends" link, and additional entries for every dollar spent on the site's travel deals. - more on this story

Jeff Conaway RIP

(Gibson) Jeff Conaway, star of the musical movie Grease, died Friday (May 27) from pneumonia, according to CNN. His manager, Phil Brock, said that Conaway, who was 60, suffered from pneumonia and had been in a coma in a hospital in Encino, California.

"He was the consummate performer and entertainer," said Brock. "We're thankful his struggles are over, but we know he will be missed by legions of fans worldwide."

Conaway began his performing career on the stage. He was in the Broadway production of Grease for two years, in the lead role of Danny Zuko. He switched to TV, landing a part on Happy Days and then the movie version of Grease (although Travolta played Danny on screen). Conaway also had a long running role in the TV sitcom, Taxi. - more on this story

American Idol Death Threat

(TMZ) Season 7 "American Idol" contestant Asia'h Epperson claims her ex-boyfriend beat the crap out of her on multiple occasions ... and then threatened her with death ... this according to court docs.

Epperson -- who placed in the Top 16 on "A.I." in 2008 -- filed a request for a restraining order against her 27-year-old ex BF ... claiming the guy has a history of "choking me and slamming me on the ground, fighting and wrestling me."

According to the docs filed in L.A. County Superior Court, Epperson claims the abuse got so bad, the ex began making "threats about killing me and then himself." She claims he also, "called people out of my phone and threatened them as well ... threatened to shoot my friends." - more on this story

Snooki Crashes Into Police Car

(TMZ) Snooki was taken into custody in Florence, Italy after crashing into a police car ... TMZ has learned.

Snooki was driving when she struck the cop car, but sources connected with the production tell TMZ, "Zero alcohol was involved." We're told no one was injured.

A witness tell TMZ, Snooki smacked her into the back of the patrol car, wedging her ride between the car and a highway protection wall. The witness says JWoww was with her at the time of the crash -- and when she tried to exit the car, she had to go through the window ... because the door was blocked by the wall. - more on this story